FS is a closed-cell polymer substrate engineered specifically for lamination. It absorbs zero water — not through the face, not through cut edges, not through fixings. Laminate it with any HPL or decorative surface and create panelling that performs for life.
What Is FS
FS is a proprietary closed-cell polymer substrate designed specifically for laminating applications. Unlike MR MDF or plywood, it has no internal pathways for water to enter — not through the face, not through cut edges, not through drilled holes. Every exposed surface is as waterproof as the board face itself.
It accepts any HPL, decorative laminate, or vinyl surface using standard contact adhesives. The result is panelling that performs in environments where conventional substrates fail — bathrooms, shower pods, IPS risers, hydrotherapy, and anywhere else moisture is constant and unforgiving.
The FS System
FS delivers four fundamental properties that make it the definitive laminating substrate for wet environments.
Not water-resistant. Waterproof. FS has a closed-cell structure that absorbs zero water — not through the face, not through cut edges, not through drilled holes. No swelling, no warping, no delamination. Ever.
FS accepts any HPL, decorative laminate, vinyl, or surface material using standard contact adhesives. The smooth, consistent surface provides excellent laminate bond strength across the entire panel.
Process with standard woodworking tools — no specialist equipment needed. CNC routing, sawing, drilling, and edge finishing all work exactly as expected. Edges remain waterproof after cutting.
FS is 100% recyclable. When panels eventually reach end of life, the polymer material can be fully recovered and reprocessed. No landfill, no waste, no environmental compromise.
Lamination & Finishing
FS is designed from the ground up as a laminating substrate. The smooth, consistent surface provides excellent adhesion for any decorative finish, while the closed-cell core ensures the panel remains completely waterproof regardless of what surface you apply.
Available Sizes
FS is stocked in the thicknesses that cover 90% of laminating applications. Other thicknesses manufactured to order.
Technical Specification
Full technical data sheet available on request.
| Water absorption | 0% |
| Material | Proprietary closed-cell waterproof polymer |
| Stocked thicknesses | 15mm, 18mm (6mm-30mm manufactured to order) |
| Sheet sizes | 2440 x 1220mm, 3050 x 1220mm, custom |
| Colour (unlaminated) | White |
| Surface compatibility | HPL, vinyl, decorative film — any laminate or decorative surface |
| Adhesive compatibility | Standard contact adhesives |
| Recyclable | 100% recyclable |
| Guarantee | Lifetime waterproof guarantee |
Full technical data sheet including density, flexural strength, and fire classification available on request. Request a copy →
Processing
No specialist equipment. No process changes. Just better results.
Standard TCT blades. Table saw, track saw, or CNC. Clean edges every time — and they stay waterproof without treatment.
Standard HSS or TCT drill bits. Accepts screws, cam fittings, and mechanical fixings. Holes remain waterproof.
Single-flute or two-flute cutters at standard speeds. Profile edges, create rebates, machine cutouts — all without compromising water resistance.
Standard contact adhesives. Spray, roller, or brush application. Compatible with cold press, membrane press, and hand application.
Profile with router. Apply edging tape with standard PUR adhesive. Or leave edges exposed — they're waterproof as-is.
Install like any panel product. Silicone sealing at junctions recommended for complete wet area systems but substrate remains waterproof regardless.
Comparison
The difference between water-resistant and waterproof is the difference between hoping for the best and knowing it’ll perform.
| Sealwise FS | MR MDF | Plywood | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water absorption | 0% | 5-12% | 15-30% |
| Cut edge protection | ✓ Inherently waterproof | ✗ Requires sealing | ✗ Requires sealing |
| Accepts standard laminates | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Standard contact adhesives | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Swelling when wet | ✓ None | ✗ Swells | ✗ Warps & delaminates |
| Suitable for constant wet exposure | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Lifetime waterproof guarantee | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 100% recyclable | ✓ | ✗ | Varies |
Applications
FS is the substrate behind laminated panels across wet and demanding environments.
HPL-faced wall panels for domestic and commercial bathrooms. Handles daily steam, splashing, and condensation without compromise.
Pre-fabricated shower pod construction where substrate failure is not an option. Constant water exposure, zero absorption.
Laminated access panels for service risers in healthcare, education, and commercial buildings. Resistant to leaks and condensation.
Wall and ceiling panelling for hydrotherapy pools, changing rooms, and spa environments. Handles chlorinated water and humidity.
En-suite panelling, vanity units, and cubicle systems for hospitals and care facilities. Daily cleaning and splash exposure without deterioration.
Wall cladding for food preparation areas. Handles washdowns, steam, and spillages while providing a hygienic, wipe-clean surface.
The Other Half of the Range
FS is the waterproof core for panelling, cladding, and laminated surfaces. WCB is the complete guaranteed system for cabinetry, furniture, and building applications — with integrated antibacterial protection, chemical resistance, and the W14 sealed joint system. Different products, same closed-cell technology, same lifetime waterproof guarantee.